The Collaboration Case

Introduction

In one of your courses this semester, you will be working on a group project. The course ends with an oral exam based on the group project.

Although you need to be working in groups, you will be graded individually.

You will meet with the supervisor twice during the semester. For each meeting, you have to deliver specific parts of the project.

After you have finished the course, there is a possibility that the supervisor might agree to supervise your upcoming bachelor project.

But given that the supervisor has a very good reputation, you need to impress her if you want to compete and get her attention for your bachelor project.

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Learning outcome

This case will familiarize you with ethical issues that bachelor students commonly face when collaborating with fellow students.

It contains dilemmas related to both group work and individual work.

By reflecting on these dilemmas, you will be better prepared to handle these issues that are commonly faced in real life, and – importantly – be better equipped to ask your teachers and fellow students questions that will further improve your competences.

Some of the problems you will meet in this case are connected with handling free-riders, your responsibility for the actions of your collaborators, and issues of authorship.

The question of honesty is also touched upon. It is not always as easy as one might think.